Dear FAS Colleagues,
As you are aware, UCSF has been taking increasingly aggressive actions to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus and the respiratory infection COVID-19. I am writing to share that Chancellor Hawgood has ordered an escalation of a wide range of UCSF policies and guidance with the goal of limiting community transmission of COVID-19 as much as possible.
I recognize that these are unsettling times, and I want you to know that I am engaged with Chancellor Hawgood and the teams that are working to coordinate UCSF’s response to the most significant public health challenge in years. As the situation evolves, I will continue to provide you updates as they become available.
In the meantime, make use of the information and resources available on the newly designed UCSF COVID-19 Resource Page and click the links below for additional details on the updated guidance that follows. In addition, to receive text alerts when updated UCSF guidance and information are available: Text 333 111 and enter “UCSF”.
Escalated Policies and Guidance – March 15, 2020
- All events of 50 or more participants shall be cancelled or postponed; events of fewer than 50 participants must prioritize alternatives such as videoconferencing.
- UCSF is restricting all non-essential university-sponsored travel, both domestic and international.
- The San Francisco Department of Public Health on March 13, 2020, issued an order restricting visitors and requiring mandatory screening for all workers entering licensed inpatient hospital buildings.
- All research visits should be conducted remotely when possible, and only those research visits that cannot be conducted remotely and that are deemed essential to the health and well-being of study participants can be conducted in person.
- UCSF is directing all faculty with research laboratories to take measures immediately to reduce viral spread. A separate message will be sent the evening of March 15, 2020, to all faculty with details about new requirements.
Faculty, Staff and Trainee Recruitment
- Effective immediately, no in-person interviews will be conducted.
Library Access – Open Until Further Notice
- The UCSF Library remains open for UCSF faculty, staff, and students at this time. For current information, please visit the Library online here.
Campus Facilities – Badge Access Required
- Most campus building perimeter access points will require UCSF badge access effective March 16, 6:00 AM.
Fitness Centers – Closed Until Further Notice
- Effective Sunday, March 15, both Bakar and Millberry Fitness Centers will be closed until further notice.
- Parking
- UCSF’s parking facilities will be free of charge to non-permit holders from Monday, 03/16 until Sunday, 3/22.
- Patients and visitors will also have access to parking facilities at no cost, including patient valet, through 3/22.
- Shuttles
- UCSF will have an update on shuttle availability soon. Thanks for your patience as our teams work to develop a plan that serves the needs our community during this public health challenge.